As a consequence of Trent Lott's resignation, a new lineup has been elected for the Republican party in the Senate. The new Whip will be Senator Jon Kyl. Senator Kyl had been Conference Chairman.Jon Kyl was a member of the House of Representatives from 1987 to 1995, when he became a Senator. He is considered to be a staunch conservative andwas ranked by the National Journal as the fourth-most conservative United States Senator in their March 2007 conservative/liberal rankings .
Kyl released the following statement after the vote: “I am honored that my colleagues have placed their confidence in me to serve as the new Assistant Republican Leader. Trent Lott is a dear friend of mine, and although no one will be able to fill his shoes, I have learned a great deal from his leadership and hope to continue in that spirit. I look forward to working with the Republican Leader and the entire conference to meet the significant challenges we will face in the coming year.”
Sen. Lamar Alexander (Tenn.) is the new Conference Chairman. He fought off a challenge from Sen. Richard Burr to win by 31-16.
